Bishop Michael Bransfield Resigns over Sexual Allegations

WTRF
September 13, 2018

https://www.wtrf.com/news/world/breaking-pope-francis-appoints-new-administrator-of-the-diocese-of-wheeling-charleston/1439399951

Following his acceptance of the letter of resignation of Bishop Michael Bransfield, Pope Francis has appointed Archbishop William E. Lori as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, while remaining Archbishop of Baltimore.

Pope Francis further instructed Archbishop Lori to conduct an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment of adults against Bishop Bransfield.

Archbishop William Lori has been named Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston by Pope Francis. (Photo: Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston)

The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston is a suffragan diocese in the Metropolitan See of Baltimore.

“My primary concern is for the care and support of the priests and people of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston at this difficult time,” Archbishop Lori said.

“I further pledge to conduct a thorough investigation in search of the truth into the troubling allegations against Bishop Bransfield and to work closely with the clergy, religious and lay leaders of the diocese until the appointment of a new bishop.”

Archbishop Lori will meet with clergy and lay leaders of the Diocese Thursday and Friday, and will celebrate Mass in Wheeling on Saturday, September 15 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph.

A hotline has been established for those wishing to share any information related to this investigation.

The hotline number is 1-833-272-4225.